Other Sources of help include:
In addition to the services we provide, there is a wide range of services available from others, including:
- Information and advice -There are many local organisations who can offer you general and specialist information and advice.
- Advocacy - This offers someone to help you and to act on your behalf, especially with official matters. This may be available from voluntary organisations (like MENCAP) and specialist advocacy services (like Carlisle People First).
- Accommodation - We work closely with District Council Housing departments and housing associations to ensure you have access to housing appropriate to your needs. This might include independent living and group/shared housing with or without support. Your accommodation can be adapted for you if you have physical as well as learning disabilities.
- Employment - We work closely with Jobcentre Plus and local employers to offer you the opportunity to work. Some day centres offer work opportunities too.
- Social and recreational activities - There is a range of social and recreational activities available through day centres, sports centres, social clubs and associations. We can tell you where these are and how to join them.
- Help and advice about money matters - Most benefits and allowances are available from the Department for Work and Pensions Jobcentre Plus. They can offer advice on benefits, along with Citizens Advice Bureaux, Welfare Benefits offices and some voluntary organisations.
- Voluntary organisations - These provide a wide range of different services and support. This includes information and advice, advocacy, social clubs and self help groups, transport, practical help, emotional support and help for carers. Citizens Advice Bureaux offer advice on a wide range of problems including employment, debt, housing and tax.
- Health services - These are provided in the community and in hospital. You can get information about them from your Doctor, Nurse, Health Visitor or from Community Health Councils or telephone helplines.
- Private services - There is a range of services available privately from companies and individuals. These include cleaning and other domestic help at home, nursing care, care at home and care in residential and nursing homes.